Diamond implants help cut risks

A pioneering new coating for medical implants could stop allergic reactions and substantially cut the risk from infections.

The new diamond-like carbon substance (DLC) could be used to coat plastic and metal implants, making them safer and less likely to be rejected, according to new research.

Professor Gordon Blunn from the Centre for Biomedical Engineering at University College London, told the BBC: "By using DLC we were able to seal off the metal from the surrounding body fluids to create a very, very hard surface which did not cause problems with allergic reactions."

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DLC works by creating an impenetrable barrier and allows blood to flow without clotting, making it ideal for implants and heart arteries.

Two patients who had suffered allergic reactions from chromium knee implants were fitted with the new implants, and suffered no adverse reaction.

The coating may also be used to create hard-wearing arteries for heart bypass operations and catheters, according to the research team.

The team is now working to develop DLC-coated collagen for use in skin graft operations.

The NHS carries out 30,000 knee implant operations every year and the average wait is ten to 11 months. The operation can cost up to £11,500 if done privately.

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